“It was very obvious that he never wanted him but the club forced him to, now he has become a very big flop. Erik ten Hag was right afterall”- Gary Neville highlights the Manchester United player whom Erik ten Hag was compelled to sign.
Gary Neville stated that Manchester United felt compelled to bring in Sofyan Amrabat during the summer transfer window to bolster Erik ten Hag’s squad. Amrabat, an international player for Morocco, arrived at Old Trafford on transfer deadline day in September on an £8.5 million loan deal, with a potential permanent transfer fee of £21.4 million.
Despite making 17 appearances for United this season, Amrabat’s absence during the Africa Cup of Nations allowed 18-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to shine. Mainoo quickly rose to prominence with notable performances, including a goal against Newport in the FA Cup and a crucial winner against Wolves in the Premier League.
According to Neville, Mainoo’s talent was recognized within the club even before Amrabat’s arrival, with Mainoo’s injury prompting United to pursue Amrabat from Fiorentina.
Rasmus Hojlund, another United midfielder, acknowledged Mainoo’s growing reputation within the squad, describing him as a “generational talent” with impressive attributes. Hojlund praised Mainoo’s composure and quality on the pitch, highlighting his remarkable talent at just 18 years old.
With Mainoo’s emergence, Manchester United’s midfield has gained a promising young prospect who has earned admiration and respect from teammates and pundits.
